Mondays in the Hindi month of Shravan or Shrawan (July – August) is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Hindus in North India observe Shravan Mas Somvar Vrata or Sravan Somavara Upvaas. In this month, Shivling is bathed with holy water from River Ganga. Fasting is observed from sunrise to sunset on all Mondays in the month. In 2015, Shravan Somvar days are August 3, August 10, August 17 and August 24 as per traditional calendar followed in North India.

In Maharashtra and Gujarat, Shravan Somvar Vrat in 2015 is on August 17, August 24, August 31 and September 7.

Married women observe the fast for a happy and long married life. Unmarried women observe it for getting good husbands. Men observe it for a happy and peaceful life. Those who observe fast eat only a single vegetarian meal. Shivlinga is bathed with Ganga water or milk at temples. Devotees also offer flowers or Bilva or Bel leaves to the Shivalingam.

Mondays in Hindu religion is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The importance of Shravan Somvar is because it is believed that the Samudra Manthan (Churning of Ocean) took place in this month and Lord Shiva drank the poison Hala Hala to save the world during this period.

Offering milk to Lord Shiva in this month is considered highly auspicious. People also worship Goddess Parvati, Ganesha and Lord Kartik in this month.

In South India, the Mondays in Kartik month (October – November) is considered highly auspicious and similar rituals are observed.